Insulin Correction Factor Calculator
Calculate Your Insulin Sensitivity Factor for Better Diabetes Management
Essential tool for determining your correction insulin dosage based on current blood sugar levels
Calculate Your Insulin Dose
Enter your current blood sugar readings and insulin sensitivity factor to calculate your correction dose.
Common targets: 80-130 mg/dL before meals
Typical range: 30-100 mg/dL per unit
Recommended Correction Dose
This is an estimate – always consult with your healthcare provider
Understanding Insulin Correction Factor
What is Insulin Correction Factor?
The insulin correction factor (also known as insulin sensitivity factor) is the expected decrease in blood sugar from 1 unit of insulin. It helps calculate how much insulin you need to correct high blood sugar levels.
How to Determine Your Correction Factor
The most common formula to estimate your insulin correction factor is the “1800 Rule”:
1800 ÷ Total Daily Insulin Dose = mg/dL drop per 1 unit
For example, if you take 40 units total per day: 1800 ÷ 40 = 45. So 1 unit of insulin would lower your blood sugar by approximately 45 mg/dL.
Important Considerations
- Correction factors vary throughout the day
- Physical activity affects insulin sensitivity
- Illness or stress can alter your correction needs
- Factors may change over time and require adjustment
Important Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates only. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your insulin regimen. Individual insulin requirements vary based on many factors including activity level, stress, illness, and insulin sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between correction factor and insulin-to-carb ratio?
The insulin correction factor is used to correct high blood sugar levels, while the insulin-to-carb ratio is used to determine how much insulin you need for the carbohydrates you’re about to eat.
How often should I check my correction factor?
It’s recommended to review your correction factor with your healthcare provider every 3-6 months, or whenever you notice consistent patterns of high or low blood sugar after corrections.
Why does my correction factor change throughout the day?
Insulin sensitivity varies due to natural hormone cycles. Many people are more insulin resistant in the morning (dawn phenomenon) and more sensitive in the afternoon or evening.
Can exercise affect my insulin correction factor?
Yes, physical activity increases insulin sensitivity, meaning you may need less insulin for correction after exercise. Always monitor blood sugar closely during and after physical activity.
Insulin Correction Factor Calculator